Monica & David

In this HBO-aired documentary, the titular couple—two high-functioning Down syndrome adults living in Florida—defy expectations by falling in love and planning to marry, with the blessing (and assistance) of their families. First-time filmmaker Alexandra Codina is Monica's cousin, allowing the film to achieve a sense of intimacy that is never intrusive or voyeuristic during the wedding ceremony and the newlyweds' first year together as man and wife. Although employed part-time, Monica and David necessarily live with the bride's mother and stepfather, both retirees (the latter, not unkindly, doubts that the couple will ever be able to sustain themselves and function independently), a situation that leads to the family moving across town to a custom-designed divided suite. The stress of the move and a health crisis for David seem to be the greatest surface challenges faced by the pair, whose affection for each other appears to be strong and deep. While an ideal support system, including social welfare agencies, seems to exist around Monica and David, both of their biological fathers left their mothers behind soon after their respective births, and for Monica in particular it's a heartache that still hurts. A powerful, emotional documentary, this is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (C. Cassady)